Student Reflection on the Taos Honors and Scholars Program

This summer, the Taos Honors & Scholars program launched its inaugural year of an immersive academic adventure blending challenging courses, a close-knit cohort, and the breathtaking cultural landscape of northern New Mexico.

For sophomore music therapy major and Presidents Scholar Trinity Gabreylski, it began as a way to check off CC credits. But two summer sessions later, she left with a deeper sense of self, a new research passion, and friendships that feel like family.

“I picked courses that seemed interesting to me and The Cultural History of New Mexico Religious Literacy stood out,” she recalls. “I’ve always wanted to learn more about the Southwest and different religions from around the world.”

Classes didn’t stay in the classroom. Students explored the region’s rich history and living traditions, visiting Taos Pueblo, Chimayo, the St. Francis Cathedral, and other cultural landmarks. Between sessions, the cohort rolled up their sleeves in a cooking class to make tortillas and authentic New Mexican green chile with a celebrated local chef and journeyed to the ancient pueblos of Chaco Canyon. “I was impressed with the amount of field trips we went on because we had two weeks for each course. Also, meeting local people was so informative.”

One visit in particular to Al Rahma Mosque left a lasting mark. Trinity met a community member whose words resonated deeply: “Just because someone is a different religion than you doesn’t mean they necessarily have different views than you.”

Her time in Taos also sparked a fascination with traditional healing practices deeply rooted in Native and Hispanic cultures. “Curanderas and shamans are very popular there… This experience inspired my research project, The Therapy and Medicalization of Curandero and Shaman Practice: The Power of Traditional Healing.” Building on that project, she developed an independent research study, which ultimately earned her an Engaged Learning Fellowship, allowing her to further explore healing traditions and their role in modern medical contexts.

Beyond the academics, Trinity found the cohort experience transformative. “All of the students were very close. We studied together, explored together… and whenever I needed something, they were there for me. We’re still in touch!”

The program also helped her reconnect with her heritage. “It felt like a mix of home and another country at the same time… I was learning more about Mexican American culture while feeling closer to my own.”

Looking toward her goal of occupational therapy school, she sees a clear connection: “I’m a music therapy major, looking into occupational therapy school for the future. Learning in Taos got me started looking at metaphysical aspects of the therapeutic field because it’s part of the culture in New Mexico. Sometimes in medical settings, the metaphysical, spiritual information that people believe in isn’t recognized. Understanding the cultural setting helps make sure your patients are getting the proper care they need.”

Her advice to future Taos Honors & Scholars students: Be open to every class. The courses connect in meaningful ways, offering chances to collaborate across subjects, learn from peers, and gain support when needed.

The Taos Honors and Scholars Program is supported by University Honors Program, the Office of Engaged Learning, and generously funded by Richter Fellowship and Friends of Taos.